U.S. lowers travel advisory to Germany, Austria to 'exercise caution'

WASHINGTON - The United States has lowered its travel advisory for Germany, Austria and several other European countries on Tuesday, advising Americans to exercise increased caution due to COVID-19, the State Department said on Tuesday.

In an updated advisory dated Monday, the department lowered Germany and Austria from Level 3 "Reconsider Travel" to Level 2 "Exercise Increased Caution." Advisories for Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Serbia were also lowered, as well as Armenia.

The risk of COVID-19 infection may be lower if someone is fully vaccinated, according to the advisory. However, the department also calls for practicing increased caution in Germany due to terrorism.